The city’s multimillion rand sewer reticulation replacement project, at Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel, has been warmly welcomed by Ward 107 councillor Floyd Ngwenya.
He expressed gratitude to the Department of Human Settlement for bringing the long-awaited development to Helen Joseph. “For the longest time, the residents of Helen Joseph have been excluded, side-lined from developments that were happening.
They have always had issues of sewage and water around the hostel. So, I am happy that the project has been introduced. They are happy and positive towards the project.”
Read more: Helen Joseph Hostel to receive long-awaited sewer upgrade
The upgrade was officially announced on October 3, during a site visit by MMC for Human Settlements Mlungiso Mabaso and City Power, who introduced the appointed contractor.
Johannesburg Water’s Mduduzi Nhlapo confirmed that the project will replace approximately 850m of external sewerage pipelines, along with several manholes connected to the hostel’s laundry room plumbing.
Ngwenya said he hopes that the project, which will only take four months, will be completed in record time. “From our side, we will make sure that we fast-track the process, because the residents of Helen Joseph deserve service delivery. They deserve to live in a conducive space where there is no sewage or water running [everywhere].
I am hoping that this will be the first of many developments that are going to happen.”
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The hostel was previously flagged for its uninhabitable conditions, including persistent sewerage blockages, an issue acknowledged by Mabaso. It has also been cited for its dilapidated infrastructure, such as broken pipes, collapsing ceilings, and the constant stench of sewage.
During the site visit, Nhlapo said that approximately 10 local labourers will be hired to support the sewerage upgrade. Ngwenya confirmed that employment will prioritise residents, especially those from Ward 107.
“We want to empower the people of Ward 107, and also the people of Helen Joseph, who will be given the special treatment to ensure that they benefit.”
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